The Need to Seek Medical Care After Chemical Exposure

It is very important to seek medical care following any kind of chemical exposure. For a recent example, two workers sustained minor injuries from a chemical explosion at a product facility in Spanish Fork. But exposure to chemicals can also occur in offices—not just manufacturing plants. And the hazardous substances can include the likes of cleaning agents—not just industrial chemicals. Workers may unwittingly interact with these substances through skin contact, eye contact, inhalation, and ingestion. Any such chemical exposure requires immediate medical attention.

Toxic Substances

The toxicity of a substance depends on its chemical composition, how much it is absorbed by the body, and how well the body can detoxify or eliminate the substance. The greater the amount of a toxic substance that enters your body, the worse its negative effects. Likewise, the longer you are exposed to such chemicals, the more likely you are to be at risk. Depending on the chemical, the effects may appear immediately after exposure, or hours later, or even days later. In turn, those who work with chemicals regularly (with minimal exposure, but repetitive doses) may also be at risk of chronic diseases that develop gradually over months or years. Chemicals can also affect different people in different ways. Some may have allergic reactions to certain substances, for example.

Detecting Symptoms

Symptoms of chemical exposure can include the following:

• dizziness
• headaches
• skin irritation
• eye irritation
• burning pain in throat or nose
• nausea
• coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath

However, such symptoms may take time to manifest, or be subtle enough to be written off as “not that serious.” That is why it is important to see a doctor after any chemical-related incident. A healthcare professional can conduct an assessment of the exposure and perform tests to identify any hidden ill effects. Conditions may include chemical burns, respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and cancer. The sooner such a condition is detected, the more likely you can minimize its progression and damage.

Avoiding Hazards

There are many steps employers and employees can take to minimize the risk of chemical exposure in the workplace. When working with chemicals, workers should wear the appropriate protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and respirators. The most common way toxic chemicals enter the body is from breathing in contaminated air, so respiratory protection is crucial. Employers should provide the safest chemicals possible, and prescribe a process that minimizes contact with them (such as rotating job assignments). Areas clearly designated for work with hazardous materials should be isolated and enclosed, and have the proper ventilation.

Workers’ Compensation

If exposed to toxic chemicals at work, getting medical care is not only important for your health. It’s also a primary method to support a workers’ comp claim. Healthcare providers can provide documentation of the chemical exposure and the specific ways it has negatively affected you. Such details would back up a claim to receive financial assistance for your medical expenses and lost wages. This in turn will provide you peace of mind while you make a full recovery. If you have experienced a chemical-related incident or any other type of injury at work, call or text Rose Legal at 801-810-7673 to get a free workers’ comp consultation.